Lighting system for dynamic lighting control

ABSTRACT

A lighting system has at least one light fixture and a control device. The at least one light fixture has light parameters. The control device is in communication with the at least one light fixture. The control device has a plurality of one-dimensional user setting, a predetermined sequence of light parameters as a function of time, and an adjustment to the predetermined sequence as a function of a selected one-dimensional user setting.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS AND PRIORITY

This patent application claims priority from German Patent ApplicationNo. 10 2018 106 089.0 filed Mar. 15, 2018, which is herein incorporatedby reference in its entirety.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure relates to a lighting system for dynamic lightingcontrol.

BACKGROUND

Lighting systems which allow a dynamic lighting control are used inconnection with human-centric lighting. In this case, in particular, thebrightness and light color of lamps, lights or lighting systems aretime-controlled.

In general, light dynamics are obtained which are oriented towards thenatural course of daylight, characterized by bright light with a coldwhite light color (similar to daylight) in the daytime and a reducedbrightness with a warm white light color in the evening and at night.

The time control usually takes place with times permanently programmedin and associated values for setting the brightness and light color.Interpolation between these specified values is performed according to acomputation process in order to produce gradual and for the userimperceptible transitions.

In some systems the permanently programmed times can be adapted manuallyor automatically as a function of the season and geographic location, byastronomical calculations or contained tables (for example for sunriseand sunset).

For special requirements it is possible to deviate from thepredetermined dynamics by user interventions, by selecting specificscenes, for example a scene with reduced brightness for viewing videopresentations in schools or in conference rooms. Another example is a“Christmas mood” with low brightness and very warm white lighting withthe intention of creating a pleasant atmosphere. These special scenesare generally static. The dynamics which is expedient from thebiological point of view is switched off as a result.

The possibilities described above for intervention by the user byselection of predetermined scenes are generally insufficient and must bein the individual case, which is associated with considerable effortduring start-up or later adaptation.

A free possibility of intervention by the user with the possibility ofchanging the brightness and color temperature of the lighting system isnot expedient in general, since the user does not have the necessaryspecialist knowledge to select from the plurality of adjustment optionsthose which correspond to the respective situation or the individualneeds of the user.

It may even happen that out of lack of knowledge the user sets lightsituations which, although they are consistent with his wishes, but arenegative with regard to their effects on the user from the biologicalpoint of view. This may be, for example, a light situation in which avery bright and cold white lighting is set at night. Frequently suchpossibilities are not used at all or are incorrectly used, because theusers are not familiar with the operating concept or are overburdened byit. In most cases a deeper understanding of the technical operation ofthe lighting system or an understanding of the visual and non-visualeffects of light, which the user does not have, is necessary in order touse a dynamic lighting system correctly.

Designers and installers are frequently overburdened with the planningand commissioning, because complex programming tasks are to be performedon light control systems, whilst the user requirements are frequentlyunclear in detail. Furthermore, the wish to be able to change evenpredetermined settings is often only apparent to the user when using thesystem.

SUMMARY

Starting from the known prior art, it is an object of the presentdisclosure to provide an improved lighting system.

The object is achieved by a lighting system with the features of theindependent claims. Advantageous further embodiments are set out in thesubordinate claims.

Accordingly, a lighting system is proposed, comprising one or more lightfixtures and a control device for adapting light parameters of the lightfixture in operation. In this case, light parameters can be, inparticular, the intensity and/or the color temperature of the lightemitted by the light fixture in operation. The term “intensity” is usedhere and in the following as a collective term for lighting parameterssuch as, for example, brightness, illumination intensity, or lightdensity. For simplicity, if a fixture reference is made below to aplurality of light fixtures, a lighting system according to thedisclosure can also have only one light fixture. Since a given intensityof the light emitted by the light fixture in a given installation leadsto an unambiguous distribution of the illumination intensity in space,the terms “intensity,” “brightness,” and “illumination intensity” areused interchangeably in the following.

A light parameter can also be a variable transmission characteristic ofa light source, for example the transmission direction or a variabletransmission angle. This is not described in greater detail below, butcan be discussed by analogy with illumination intensity or colortemperature.

The light fixture can be connected to the control device by a cableand/or wirelessly (for example WLAN, Bluetooth, ZigBee, Z-Wave or byother protocols). A mixed connection (partially by cable, partiallywireless) is also possible.

The control device is configured to adapt the light parameters in atime-dependent manner according to one or more predetermined sequencesof the light parameters. In particular, in the course of a day theintensity and/or the color temperature of the light can be subject tochange. For example, the control device can control the light fixture sothat in the morning and in the evening it emits light of lower intensityand/or with a lower color temperature (for example warm white) and inthe daytime it emits light of high intensity and/or with a high colortemperature (for example cold white, similar to daylight). Likewise, forexample, in the daytime a light fixture can illuminate relatively largeareas by its orientation and/or its transmission angle, while in theevening only individual objects are illuminated in a targeted manner.

In this case, the light fixtures can be controlled, individually orcombined in groups, so that different sequences can also bepredetermined for different light fixtures and different groups of lightfixtures.

The following description applies correspondingly, for example, to anindividual predetermined sequence for a light fixture or a group oflight fixtures, alongside which other sequences are also possible forother light fixtures. Thus, the control device can facilitatepredetermination of one or also several sequences; for example, todefine different sequences for lights on ceilings than for lights whichilluminate walls.

Furthermore, the control device is configured to receive aone-dimensional user setting and to change the sequence of the lightparameters according to the one-dimensional user setting. In this case aone-dimensional user setting is understood to be an individualparameter, the value of which lies between a lower limit value and anupper limit value. For example, the value of the one-dimensional userinput can be between 0 and 1, alternatively between 0 and 100, furtheralternatively between −100 and +100. Preferably, a value in the valuerange of the one-dimensional user setting (for example a setting of 0)corresponds to the situation where the predetermined sequence of lightparameters remains unchanged. For all other settings, the value of theuser setting determines how far the changed sequence deviates from thepredetermined configuration. Thus, the user does not have to changeindividual light parameters but determines the changes to the lightparameters functionally derived from the individual light parameterswith the change to a setting parameter.

Several different sequences for different light fixtures can also bechanged by the same user setting.

According to the disclosure, in response to an input of aone-dimensional user setting the control device does not directly changethe current values of the light parameters, that is to say not thecurrent brightness and the current color temperature, but according topreset specifications it changes the sequence of the light parametersfrom the predetermined sequence to a changed sequence and thus alsoaffects the sequence thereof in the future. This can then also lead tothe current values of the light parameters being adapted accordingly,when the changed sequence for the current time provides different valuesfor the light parameters than the originally predetermined sequence.

For example, an increase in the one-dimensional user setting can lead toan increase in both the intensity and also the color temperature. Thus,the light becomes brighter and “colder”. Correspondingly, a reduction inthe one-dimensional user setting can lead to a reduction in both theintensity and also the color temperature. Thus, the light becomes darkerand “warmer”. Due to such a setting of the light parameters inaccordance with one single value, the operation of the lighting systemcan be simplified for a user. It is also possible to prevent the userfrom selecting unsuitable combinations of values for the lightparameters.

The lighting system preferably has an input device connected to thecontrol device for input of the one-dimensional user setting. The inputdevice can be a direct input device, for example a switch, a knob or aslider. The direct input device can be a mechanical input device. Thedirect input device can also have a display device, on which one or moreinput elements corresponding to a mechanical input device are displayed.Such a display device is preferably touch-sensitive. However, on atouch-sensitive display device one or more input elements can bedisplayed which have no equivalent in a mechanical input device. A mixeddisplay is also possible. The input device can be connected to thecontrol device by cable and/or wirelessly (for example WLAN, Bluetooth,ZigBee, Z-Wave or by other protocols).

The input device can also be configured to display a measure of thechange in the sequence of the light parameters on the display device.This can take place for example by a graphical representation of thevalue of the one-dimensional user setting. A graphical representation ofthe effect of the selected one-dimensional user setting on the lightparameters can also take place. Furthermore, a representation ofspecific thresholds of the value of the one-dimensional user setting(for example in the form of words) can also take place.

The input device can also be an application running on a computer (inparticular a desktop computer, laptop computer, smartphone, tablet orother mobile devices). The application can represent one or more inputelements on a display device of the computer, as described above.

In an embodiment, the control device is further configured to change thepredetermined sequence of the light parameters corresponding to furtherinput values. Further input values here are input values which are notinput by a user. The further input values can be determined, forexample, by the control device itself (for example by internal sensorsor by computation from already known parameters). The control device canreceive the further input values also from other components, inparticular from external sensors.

Examples of further input values are the date, the time, the presence ofpersons in the region which is illuminated by the light fixtures. Forexample, the intensity of the illumination can be decreased when nopersons are present.

Also, when further input values are taken into consideration, thecurrent values of the light parameters, for example the currentbrightness and the current color temperature, are not changed directly,but according to preset specifications the sequence of the lightparameters is changed from the predetermined sequence to a changedsequence. This can then also lead to the current values of the lightparameters being adapted accordingly, when the changed sequence for thecurrent time provides different values for the light parameters than theoriginally predetermined sequence.

In an embodiment, the control device is further configured to change thepredetermined sequence of the light parameters in a non-linear mannerwith the one-dimensional user setting. For example, in the event of achange in the one-dimensional user setting to higher setting values, theintensity is changed relatively more significantly than the colortemperature, while in the event of changes to lower setting values thecolor temperature is changed relatively more significantly than theintensity.

In an embodiment, the control device is further configured to take intoconsideration maximum and/or minimum values for the light parameterswhen changing the sequence of the light parameters. In other words, apredetermined sequence of maximum and/or minimum values for the lightparameters can be provided and the control device can ensure that thechanged sequence of the light parameters is not above the predeterminedsequence of maximum values and/or not below the predetermined sequenceof minimum values.

In particular, the maximum and/or minimum values can depend upon timeparameters and/or parameters other than time parameters. As an exampleof time parameters, the maximum value of the intensity and/or the colortemperature in the morning and/or in the evening can be lower than inthe daytime. This may prevent settings by the user which, for example,run counter to the circadian rhythm.

In an embodiment, the control device is further configured to reset thepredetermined sequence of the light parameters after a predeterminedfirst time period to the predetermined sequence of the light parameters.Thus, it can be ensured that carried out changes made by the user to thesequence of the light parameters are automatically reversed again afterthe first time period. The first time period can have a constantduration. The first time period can also have different durationsdepending upon the change made. For example, minor changes to thesequence of the light parameters can be maintained for a longer lengthof time than major changes.

The resetting of the changed sequence of the light parameters to thepredetermined sequence of the light parameters after the expiry of thepredetermined first time period can take place suddenly or continuouslyover a predetermined second time period.

In one embodiment the control device is further configured to retain thechanged sequence of the light parameters even after the switching offand on again of the light fixture(s) if there is at least onepredetermined third time period between the switching off and on again.Thus, in the event of a short departure from the area illuminated by thelight fixtures, the light fixtures are switched off without the changecarried out being lost when switching on again. On the other hand, thethird time period can be selected so that after switching off andswitching on again after half an hour or the next day the sequence ofthe light parameters is again reset to the predetermined sequence, sothat the user does not have to be concerned about whether a changedsequence of the light parameters might still be set.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Preferred further embodiments of the disclosure are explained in greaterdetail by the following description of the drawings. In the drawing:

FIG. 1 shows a predetermined sequence for intensity and colortemperature;

FIG. 2 shows a further predetermined sequence for intensity and colortemperature;

FIGS. 3a, 3b, 3c show further examples for predetermined sequences aswell as sequences of maximum and minimum values for the colortemperature and the illumination intensity;

FIG. 4 shows a further predetermined sequence for intensity and colortemperature;

FIG. 5 shows a changed sequence for intensity and color temperature;

FIG. 6 shows a further predetermined sequence for intensity and colortemperature;

FIG. 7 shows a further changed sequence for intensity and colortemperature;

FIGS. 8a, 8b, 8c, 8d, 8e show different embodiments of the graphicalrepresentation of the value of the one-dimensional user setting;

FIG. 9 shows an example for the dependence of the melanopic daylightequivalent illumination intensity upon the illumination intensity andthe color temperature;

FIGS. 10a, 10b, 10c, 10d, 10e show an embodiment of the graphicalrepresentation of the predetermined sequence and different changedsequences for intensity and color temperature;

FIGS. 11a, 11b, 11c show a further embodiment of the graphicalrepresentation of the value of the one-dimensional user setting;

FIGS. 12a, 12b show further embodiments of the graphical representationof the value of the one-dimensional user setting combined with aquasi-analogous representation of the user setting as an arrow; and

FIG. 13 shows schematically an embodiment of a lighting system accordingto the disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Preferred exemplary embodiments are described below with reference tothe drawings. In this case elements which are the same, similar, or actin the same way are provided with identical reference numerals in thedifferent drawings, and repeated description of some of these elementsis omitted in order to avoid redundancies.

FIG. 1 shows a predetermined sequence for intensity and colortemperature (CCT, correlated color temperature). On the basis of thesepredetermined sequences, a control device of a lighting system canautomatically and dynamically (with time control) set the intensity andcolor temperature of the light fixtures belonging to the lighting systemso that an advantageous illumination in terms of human-centric lightingis produced.

The definition of the dynamics takes place by predetermination ofspecific support points which, at defined times t corresponding to thetime of day, predetermine associated values for illumination intensity(“illumination intensity” and “intensity of the light” are usedinterchangeably below) and color temperature. For times between thedefined support points, intermediate values can be automaticallyinterpolated by the control device, so that uniform transitions from onesupport point to the next are possible which are imperceptible to theuser.

Alternatively, the predetermination of additional support points for amore precise graduation is possible, as illustrated in FIG. 2. Then theinterpolation can be omitted.

In FIGS. 1 and 2 and also in FIGS. 3 to 7, which are described below, ineach case the color temperature is shown in Kelvin (K) on the left and(except for FIG. 3) the illumination intensity is shown in lux (Ix) onthe right. The sequences can be stored directly in the control device assuch physical parameters, but also as other values, from which physicalparameters can be calculated.

In one embodiment, the times that define support point can be changed asa function of astronomical data (for example time, sunrise and sunsettimes, geographical location). This can take place manually orautomatically under program control. Thus, for example, the time atwhich the increase in illumination intensity and color temperaturebegins in the morning can be automatically adapted to the sunrise time.

The predetermined time sequence S of a light parameter X can beexpressed as S_(X,0)(t). For example, the predetermined time sequence ofthe intensity (or illumination intensity) can be expressed as S_(B,0)(t)and the predetermined time sequence of the color temperature can beexpressed as S_(T,0)(t). If astronomical data are taken intoconsideration, as described above, different functions are produced fordifferent days in the year and different geographical locations.

Until now a dynamic lighting control without user intervention has beendescribed, corresponding to the current state of the art. Thistime-dependent control of color temperature and brightness can bechanged by further overlaid functions. In this case the support pointsfor illumination intensity and color temperature, which originallydetermine for each time t a fixed initial or basic setting forillumination intensity S_(B,0)(t) and color temperature S_(T,0)(t), arechanged for each time according to an overlaid function. These overlaidfunctions can be defined by external signals such as, for example, userinterfaces or sensors. However, parameters such as time of days orseason can be included therein. Thus, the user can perform individualinterventions in the system and can change the pre-defined settings.

This allows the user to change the setting for illumination intensityand color temperature corresponding to the functions f_(T)(t,x) for thecolor temperature and f_(B)(t,x) for the illumination intensity whichare overlaid on it.

Thus, for the changed settings S_(B)(t,x) and S_(T)(t,x) forillumination intensity and color temperature at the time t, thefollowing equations are produced:S _(B)(t,x)=S _(B,0)(t)·f _(B)(t,x)S _(T)(t,x)=S _(T,0)(t)·f _(T)(t,x)

In this case, the parameter x stands for a value which can be calculatedfrom various different parameters. In this case, x can be determinedprimarily or exclusively by a setting selected by the user on a userinterface, such as for example a desired adjustment to higher or lowervalues. However, x can also be influenced by an external sensor which inthe absence of the user takes the basic setting to low values down tozero, or which takes the brightness back as a function of theavailability of daylight.

In this case, it is significant that the adjustment of the basic settingdoes not only change the instantaneous value statically, but changes theentire profile of the light dynamics for each time t.

This is illustrated by way of example for the color temperature in FIG.3a . The basic setting is shown there as a bold solid line,corresponding to a user input of 0. The maximum value which in this caseis limited by the technical possibilities of the lighting system isrepresented as a dotted line at 6500 K. Correspondingly, the minimumvalue at 2700 K is represented as a broken line.

For user inputs from −100 to +100 the resulting sequences for the colortemperature are illustrated as an array of curves.

In this case the scope of the possibility for adjustment, i.e. how farthe setting of the lighting system may deviate from the basic settingS_(X,0)(t) or which minimum and maximum values are permissible, can berestricted within specific limits.

These limits are usually provided by the technical possibilities of thelighting system, for example maximum intensity of a light fixture ortechnically possible range for the color temperature. In one embodiment,these technical limits can be further restricted, in that for themaximum and minimum setting values for illumination intensity and colortemperature in each case one or two threshold functions are defined,which define maximum and/or minimum values for color temperature and forillumination intensity as a function of the time of day t.

Alternative or additional boundaries are also conceivable which arefixed as a function of other parameters such as the season orcharacteristics of user groups.

Accordingly FIG. 3b shows the basic setting, i.e. the predeterminedsequence using the example of the color temperature as a bold solidcurve, corresponding to a user input of 0, as a function of the time ofday. The upper, dotted curve shows by way of example a thresholdfunction for the maximum color temperature which can be set at aspecific time. In this case the maximum value of approximately 6500 K isdictated technically, but in the morning and evening hours the maximumcolor temperature is further limited to lower values.

Correspondingly, the lower curve as a broken line shows the minimumcolor temperature which can be set. In this case in the illustrated casethe minimum value of approximately 2700 K occur is dictated technically,but in the daytime the minimum color temperature is temporarily limitedto higher values. Furthermore, color temperature sequences which canresult from user inputs between −100 and +100 are illustrated, by way ofexample, in FIG. 3 b.

In FIG. 3c , as a further example, a predetermined sequence (bold solidline) and an upper (broken line) and lower (dotted line) limit sequencesfor the illumination intensity are illustrated. These can have adifferent characteristic than the sequences of the color temperature.Nevertheless, they react to the same user input to which the sequence ofthe color temperature also reacts.

The precise sequence of these color temperature or intensity sequencesdepends upon the definition of the functions f_(T)(t,x) and f_(B)(t,x)and is shown merely by way of example in FIGS. 3a, 3b and 3 c.

The threshold functions can be used to limit the changeability of thelight setting. For example, it is expedient in the evening not to allowvery high values for the color temperature, in order to minimizepossible disruptions of the circadian rhythms of the user and a negativeinfluence on sleep.

Accordingly, for example, also a minimum illumination intensityS_(B,min)(t) can be defined, so that S_(B)(t,x)>=S_(B,min)(t) appliesfor all times or at least for specific times.

Thus, in one embodiment, during the day a maximum color temperature of6500 K is permitted, if the system technically allows it. In the eveningafter 21:00 the maximum value of the color temperature S_(T,max)(t) fort>21:00 is limited to 4000 K. If the basic setting, i.e. thepredetermined sequence of the color temperature S_(T,0)(t) for this timeprovides a color temperature of 2700 K, in this example a maximum colortemperature of 4000 K can thus also be achieved by user interventions.This allows the restriction of user interventions to settings which havebeen defined as expedient.

Usually for a biologically “expedient” setting during the day a highcolor temperature and high illumination intensity are normally selectedas the basic setting; for the evening and the night a low colortemperature and a lower illumination intensity are used.

Such threshold functions can be programmed in as predetermined“expedient” functions in the lighting system and/or can also beconfigured during the start-up or by experienced users.

For the restrictions for minimum and maximum values of color temperatureand/or illumination intensity, in addition to the time of day furtherparameters can also be taken into consideration. Thus, a sensor fordaylight or for the presence of persons can give an additional signalwhich reduces the maximum intensity which is emitted by the lightfixtures.

Furthermore, further functions can also be defined, which excludespecific settings or combinations of settings. Thus, combinations ofvery high color temperature at the same time as low illuminationintensity are not expedient, because they are perceived as unpleasant bythe user. For example, therefore the maximum color temperature T_(N) canbe defined as a function of the set illumination intensity B. In oneembodiment, this can take place as follows:T _(N)<=10·B with T _(N) in K, B in Lux for B>270 Ix andT _(N)=2700 K for B<=270 Ix

For input of a required deviation from the predetermined sequence of thelight parameters, an input device (also called a user interface oroperating element) is preferably used. In one embodiment, an operatingelement allows a deviation from the initial setting S_(B,0)(t) andS_(T,0)(t) described above which is one-dimensional, that is to say onlyin two directions which are designated below as “up” and “down”.

The operating element can be a rotary knob, a slider, a push button withan “up” and a “down” function, or a comparable element, which reallyexists or is arranged virtually on the operating panel of a userinterface. A key feature is that the input unit emits only oneone-dimensional parameter, for example a number of units in the “up” or“down” direction, but because of the stored functions thisone-dimensional parameter affects the deviation from the basic settingfor illumination intensity and color temperature.

A setting E of the operating element therefore corresponds to a changerequired by the user for the predetermined sequences (control curves)for color temperature and illumination intensity. The setting of theoperating element does not act directly on the color temperature andillumination intensity of the light fixtures of the lighting system, buton the functions which describe color temperature and illuminationintensity. Thus, the same changes to the setting E can have differenteffects on the actual change of color temperature and illuminationintensity, for example as a function of the time of day. Since furtherparameters can participate in the function for changing the basicsetting, complex dependencies can be implemented. Thus, it isconceivable that at specific times of day changes to the colortemperature are restricted in one or the other direction, or that, as afunction of the current basic settings, required changes by the useraffect the color temperature and the illumination intensity to adifferent extent.

The actuation of the “up” function (for example, turning a rotary knobin a clockwise direction) can effect a change of illumination intensityand/or color temperature to higher values. When the “down” function isactuated, the change to lower values can accordingly take place.

The degree of change V for the illumination intensity B and colortemperature T can be defined in different functions V_(B)=f_(B)(E,t,x)and V_(T)=f_(T)(E,t,x), which are determined inter alia by the setting Eof the operating element.

The setting E can correspond to the position of a slider or rotaryswitch. It can also correspond to the number of emitted pulses or therotational speed of a rotary encoder, or a differently input orcalculated value (for example by a gesture or a sensor, or another way)for the extent of an adjustment required by the user or oriented to hisrequirements.

This also includes automatically generated values for the setting E,which for example can originate from a brightness sensor or presencesensor or can be calculated from user data or the like.

For the new settings for illumination intensity and color temperaturethe following applies for exampleS _(B)(t)=S _(B,0)(t)+V _(B) and S _(T)(t)=S _(T,0)(t)+V _(T)

For the example of illumination intensity, in this example the functionwould be described according to the definition as described abovef(t,x)=1+V _(B) /S _(B,0)(t) andS _(B)(t,x)=S _(B,0)(t)·(1+V _(B) /S _(B,0)(t))

Further parameters which can participate in the functions V_(B) andV_(T) may be the following:

-   -   The time t, which can be determined by local time and season.    -   The time at which a preceding change was carried out. With this        information it is possible to limit the time for which a        specific change is retained. Thus, for example, the change that        a user sets is only effective for a specific time and thereafter        goes back again to the basic setting.    -   Any further parameters which are symbolized by “x” in the        formula above. In one embodiment this can be the difference        between the basic setting S_(B,0)(t) or S_(T,0)(t) to the        respective maximum value or minimum value for illumination        intensity and color temperature of the lighting system. Thus,        for example, an input for changing the direction towards lower        values has a stronger effect on lowering the color temperature        if this latter is set relatively high, and only in the event of        further reduction of the setting E value a reduction of the        illumination intensity is then implemented. Conversely, in the        event of a corresponding input for reduction determined by the        setting E value, with a high illumination intensity and average        color temperature, the illumination intensity can first be        reduced.

Experience shows that the combinations of low illumination intensitieswith high color temperature as well as high illumination intensitieswith low color temperature are perceived as unpleasant by users.Furthermore, high illumination intensities with low color temperatureare also not expedient in terms of energy, since the same effect on thebiological system can usually also be achieved with reduced illuminationintensity and higher color temperature.

If the user makes changes, in a lighting system according to thedisclosure these fundamental principles can be observed for the mostpart.

Thus, an input for change to higher values (“up”) could initially have astronger effect on the illumination intensity than on the colortemperature. Only when the user inputs a change very strongly in the“up” direction, the color temperature also “follows suit”.

Conversely, an input for lower values (“down”) could initially relate tothe color temperature if this latter is at a high basic level. Theillumination intensity correspondingly “follows suit”.

In the following examples, for the purpose of illustration, valuesbetween −100 and +100 are used as numerical values for the setting E.Values which exceed this or any other scaling are also conceivable. Thesetting of the operating element is transferred by an analogue ordigital signal from the operating element to the controller.

The terms S_(T)(t) and S_(B)(t) for the settings of color temperatureand illumination intensity are used here so that the setting and thevalue itself are used synonymously, even if internally in the controldevice a digital value is calculated which only corresponds to the lightvalues. This may be, internally, a percentage, an 8-Bit or 16-Bitcontrol value or the like.

The same applies to the color temperature, which internally in thecontrol device or externally in the operating device of a light fixturecan be converted into a representation as a color location x,y or as aratio of pulse width modulation of two or more output channels of alight control systems.

In the following examples an illumination intensity S_(B,0)(t₁)=650 Ixand a color temperature of S_(T,0)(t₁)=5350 K may be predetermined as abasic setting for a time t₁. For the illumination intensity and colortemperature for the time t₁, S_(B,min)(t₁)=300 Ix and S_(T,min)(t₁)=2700K may be defined as minimum values and S_(B,max)(t₁)=800 Ix andS_(T,max)(t₁)=6500 K may be defined as maximum values.

A user intervention with a required adjustment of the setting E=+50 canbe dealt with as follows:

a) “Linear” Reaction:

In this example the illumination intensity and the color temperature arechanged proportionately to the setting E. In this case it may bepredetermined that a change of the setting E by 1 corresponds to achange to the color temperature by 20 K: V_(T)(t₁,1)=20 K. Thus a changeof the setting E by 50 corresponds to V_(T)(t₁,50)=1000 K. In thisexample this may apply for all times t and the dependence of change Vand the setting E may be linear. Then the following is obtained for thechanged color temperatureS _(T)(t ₁)=MIN[S _(T,0)(t ₁)+V _(T)(t ₁,50); S _(T,max)(t1)]==MIN[(5350K+1000 K); 6500 K]==6350 K.

For the illumination intensity, it may be predetermined that a change ofthe setting E by 1 corresponds to a change to the illumination intensityby 4 Ix: V_(B)(t₁,1)=4 Ix. Thus, a change of the setting E by 50corresponds to V_(B)(t₁,50)=200 Ix. In this example this may also applyfor all times t and the dependence of V and the setting E may be linear.Then the following is obtained for the changed illumination intensityS _(B)(t ₁)=MIN[S _(B,0)(t ₁)+VB(t ₁,50); S _(B,max)(t ₁)]==MIN[(650Ix+200 Ix); 800 Ix]==800 Ix.

In this simple example, maximum or minimum values are achievedrelatively quickly. The fundamental curve shape of the dynamic curveS(t) is changed as a result. Maximum or minimum values are achievedearlier and are maintained for longer times. More complex dependenciesare not provided here.

For the above example a), the predetermined sequence for colortemperature and illumination intensity is illustrated in FIG. 4 and thechanged sequence of these light parameters for a change to the userinput by +50 is illustrated in FIG. 5.

b) Linear Reaction with Finer Graduation:

In this example a change of the setting E=1 corresponds to a change of1% of the difference between the value for the basic setting S_(T,0)(t₁)and the maximum value S_(T,max)(t₁). In contrast to the above example,the maximum value for the time t₁ may be limited to 6000 K. Then achange to the setting E by 1 corresponds to a change to the colortemperature V_(T)(t₁,1) by 1% of the difference 6000 K−5350 K=650 K,that is to say by 6.5 K. Thus V_(T)(t₁,50)=325 K andS _(T)(t ₁)=MIN[S _(T,0)(t ₁)+V _(T)(t ₁,50); S _(T,max)(t1)]==MIN[(5350K+325 K); 6000 K]==5675 K.

With corresponding predetermination for the change to the illuminationintensity a change of the setting E by 1 corresponds to a change to thecolor temperature V_(B)(t₁,1) by 1% of the difference 800 Ix−650 Ix=150Ix, that is to say by 1.5 Ix. Thus V_(B)(t₁,50)=75 Ix andS _(B)(t ₁)=MIN[S _(B,0)(t ₁)+VB(t ₁,50); S _(B,max)(t ₁)]==MIN[(650Ix+75 Ix); 800 Ix]==725 Ix.

By relating the required change to the difference between the value ofthe basic setting and the maximum value at the time t₁ the setting E ismore finely graduated, and the fundamental curve shape is maintained.Rather, the sequence is expanded or compressed. Minimum or maximumvalues are achieved at the same times as before the user intervention.

For the above example b), the predetermined sequence for the colortemperature and the illumination intensity is illustrated in FIG. 6 andthe changed sequence of these light parameters for a change to the userinput by +50 is illustrated in FIG. 7.

Any other functions for the association of the setting E to changes Vare conceivable. Preferably, such changes in which the relationshipbetween the setting E and the change V for illumination intensity andcolor temperature is described by a monotonically increasing operation,i.e. in the event of increasing values of the setting E the illuminationintensity and/or the color temperature likewise increase or are at leastmaintained. Conversely, with falling values of the setting E theillumination intensity and/or color temperature also fall or are atleast maintained.

In this case, negative values of the setting E corresponds to areduction of the illumination intensity and/or color temperatureaccording to the examples a) and b), but in the other direction.

c) Complex (Non-Linear) Reaction:

In this example, the special features with regard to non-visual effectsare taken into consideration, the illumination intensity changesaccording to linear functions as described in example b), whilst thecolor temperature changes according to a non-linear function.

With the exemplary settings which are used in the example b), thefollowing functions could be defined. For the illumination intensityV_(B)(t₁,50)=75 Ix and S_(B)(t₁)=725 Ix may apply identically to exampleb).

For the color temperature a dependence upon the 3rd power of the settingE is defined:V _(T)(t ₁ ,E)=(E/100){circumflex over ( )}3·(S _(T,max)(t ₁)−S _(T,0)(t₁))

Thus, for the setting E=50 the following is obtained:V _(T)(t ₁,50)=0,5{circumflex over ( )}3·(6000 K−5350 K)=0,125·650 K=81Kand thus S_(T)(t₁)=5350 K+81 K=5431 K.

In particular in the evening, when the system in the basic state is setto low color temperatures, such a dependence makes it possible initiallyto make relatively little change to the color temperature, while theillumination intensity is significantly changed. Only when the settingvalue for the change preselected by the user approaches the possiblemaximum of 100% (E=100) is the effect on a change to the colortemperature stronger.

In the case of a reduction of the setting values relative to the basicsetting, a correspondingly reversed behavior can be implemented, so thatthe change initially has a stronger effect on the color temperature andonly later on the illumination intensity.

A minimum illumination intensity is preferably defined which is alwayskept as a minimum value so that sufficient quality of vision is ensured.In work environments, such as offices or conference rooms, this minimumvalue can be predetermined by standards. The value of S_(B,min)(t)should correspond to this minimum value. In the “normal” dynamics—evenafter user intervention—as described above this minimum value is notundershot.

In many cases, however, it may be desirable to set a further reducedbrightness, for example when a relaxed mood is to be set in a room, orwhen only a very low brightness is required, for example in order towatch a film or a presentation.

In this case, if a maximum reduction of illumination intensity and colortemperature down to the minimum values described above has already beenachieved, a further actuation of the “down” function can be seen as awish by the user to go beyond this “minimum value” to the extent ofswitching off the illumination, corresponding to a dimmer function. Inthis case, with the minimum color temperature kept constant theillumination intensity can be further reduced.

Since the settings themselves and the changes for the settings are notimmediately apparent for the user, it may be expedient to give the usera feedback message as to what the changed settings can implement andwhat changes he can expect for the current light settings and thosecoming later.

For the user such a change can be displayed, for example, graphically bya diagram which shows the changed sequence of illumination intensity andcolor temperature, optionally by comparison with the predeterminedsequence.

Such diagrams are usually very complex and not necessarily easilyunderstood. Therefore the following examples describe how a displayshows the sequence in simplified form.

Such a display can preferably take place directly on the input device,so that during the change of the one-dimensional user setting the userhas the effects directly in view. In particular the input device canhave a touch-sensitive display device on which the user makes therequired change by touch.

In one embodiment, the display takes place by a bar chart (horizontal orvertical), on which the setting just selected for the one-dimensionaluser setting is highlighted. Such a bar chart can, for example, displaythe value for the one-dimensional user setting with color coding, asillustrated schematically in FIG. 8a . In this case, for the “normalsetting”, i.e. for a dynamics according to the predetermined sequence, a“neutral” shade as white or light yellow can be used. Raised values forthe one-dimensional user setting can be indicated by shades of blue (forexample light blue to dark blue or pale blue to strong blue) and loweredvalues can be indicated by shades of red and/or orange (for exampleyellow to red). Such a display can take place (more or less) in ananalogous, i.e. continuously variable, manner.

Alternatively or in addition, the display can also have categorieswhich, for example, represent the corresponding light situation. Thesecategories can be given using words, as illustrated schematically inFIG. 8b . In the embodiment according to FIG. 8b this is for example“HCL Daylight” for the predetermined sequence (i.e. without anydeviation input by the user) as well as “Work Late” and “PerformanceBoost” for raised values of the one-dimensional user setting. Forlowered values in this embodiment “CREATIVE” and “RELAX” are used.Obviously, other terms and also more or fewer terms can also be used

In the embodiment according to FIG. 8c the categories are illustrated bysymbols. Here too, other symbols and also more or fewer symbols can beused. A mixture of symbols and words can also be used.

A different type of representation is illustrated schematically in FIG.8d . Here the current values of illumination intensity and colortemperature are shown on a scale, in this case as superimposed barcharts with different colors, for example yellow for the illuminationintensity (narrow bar) and blue for the color temperature (wide bar).The bars can also be arranged below one another or adjacent to oneanother. The bars can also be in a ring.

A new value can be calculated from the values for the illuminationintensity and color temperature according to a formula. This can takeplace, for example, by multiplication of the two values or alsomultiplication of the two values with respective constant factors andaddition of the products.

From the color temperature, with a knowledge of the spectraldistribution, a factor can be determined which describes the ratio ofmelanopic equivalent daylight illuminance according to DIN SPEC5031-100:2015 to the visually evaluated illumination intensity.

In the case of a white LED illumination with 6500 K this factor isapproximately 0.8. In the case of a warm white LED illumination with3000 K this factor is approximately 0.45.

If the illumination intensity is multiplied by the conversion factorcalculated according to this method, this produces the melanopicequivalent daylight illuminance according to DIN SPEC 5031-100.

According to the present-day state of knowledge, this value is a measureof the effectiveness of the light on the biological system at a specificillumination intensity and a specific color temperature. This value canalso be displayed on a scale. This embodiment is shown schematically inFIG. 8e . Here too, in addition to a linear representation therepresentation as a ring-shaped bar or in the form of a tacho display isalso conceivable.

The dependence of the melanopic equivalent daylight illuminance upon theillumination intensity and the color temperature is shown approximatelyin FIG. 9 for the example of LED lighting.

FIGS. 10a and 10e show a further type of display. Here, symbols fordifferent values for the one-dimensional user input are shown on theleft, comparable with FIG. 8c . The setting just selected or at leastthe symbol which is closest to the setting just selected can be shownhighlighted. To the right of this then in each case the respectivesequence of color temperature and illumination intensity is indicated ona horizontal time axis. In this case the color of the vertical bars canrepresent the color temperature at the respective time. For example,warm to neutral white light colors can be represented by orange-coloredto yellow bars, and cold white light colors can be represented by lightblue to strong blue bars.

The illumination intensity can be symbolized by the length of the bars.

Simultaneously the lower value of the bar can be determined by the colortemperature. This makes it possible to symbolize that higher colortemperatures have a higher non-visual effect.

In the illustrated examples a bar corresponds to the mean value fromapproximately 1.5 hours over the entire day. Thus the setting can besymbolized for the user. The current status can be displayed by a symbol(for example a sun symbol above the bar). It is possible for the user tosee how the illumination situation is further changed.

A display of the sequence of color temperature and illuminationintensity, in particular for the future values, can also take place inanother way.

The symbols shown on the left in FIGS. 10a to 10e can correspond to theterms “Performance Boost”, “Work Late”, “HCL Daylight”, “CREATIVE” and“RELAX” mentioned with regard to FIG. 8 b.

The setting “Performance Boost” could also be designated as “boost”,“performance-enhancing illumination”, “concentration” or by terms with asimilar meaning. This setting would be suitable for increasingconcentration and efficiency in the short term, but it carries the riskof also having a negative influence on the user at the wrong time, forexample by enhanced biological effects in the evening.

The possibility of choosing such a setting can be limited by definitionof maximum values as described in detail above. Also a time limit forsetting the “Performance Boost” setting can be defined—for example notafter 22:00.

Likewise, the period of time for which the “performance boost” settingremains activated can be limited. Thus for example, if the “PerformanceBoost” setting is selected after 21:00 the value of setting E could beautomatically reduced under program control every 2-3 minutes by aspecific amount, until the “Work Late” setting (described below) isreached again.

An example of a changed sequence of the light parameters in the“Performance Boost” setting is illustrated in FIG. 10a . In FIGS. 3b and3c these are the sequences which are close to the upper limit sequences.

The “Work Late” setting could also be designated as “evening working” or“concentration (without circadian disturbance)”, “focused working” orthe like. This setting, in which the illumination intensity issignificantly increased beyond the predetermined starting setting, whilethe color temperature is not or only slightly raised, is suitable inorder to work in the evening or at night without a considerabledisruptive effect on the circadian system. However, it can also be usedin the daytime in order to promote concentrated working.

An example of a changed sequence of the light parameters in the “WorkLate” setting is illustrated in FIG. 10b . In FIGS. 3b and 3c these arethe sequences which lie in the middle area between the predeterminedsequence and the upper limit sequence.

The “HCL Daylight” setting could also be designated as “HCL mode”,“daylight”, “standard operation”, “daylight dynamics”, “naturalillumination” or by similar terms which symbolize that the illuminationis oriented substantially towards the natural daylight sequence.

An example of a changed sequence of the light parameters in the “HCLDaylight” setting is illustrated in FIG. 10c . In FIGS. 3b and 3c theseare the sequences which lie close to the predetermined sequence.

The “CREATIVE” setting could also be designated as “creativityillumination” or the like. In studies it has been demonstrated that withwarm white illumination creativity is higher than with standardillumination or raised color temperature. In specific cases it may beexpedient, even during the day when a bright illumination similar todaylight is implemented as “standard HCL illumination”, to deviate fromthis preset and to choose the “creativity setting”, for example forcarrying out creativity workshops, brainstorming or other activities inwhich an inspiring atmosphere which promotes creativity is needed morethan one which promotes concentration and attentiveness.

As an example of a predetermined sequence of the light parameters, the“CREATIVE” setting is illustrated in FIG. 10d . In FIGS. 3b and 3c theseare the sequences which lie in the middle area between the predeterminedsequence and the lower limit sequence.

The “RELAX” setting could also be designated as “relaxation” or thelike. Warm colors and a brightness which is reduced below theconventional “working level” promote the relaxation and enable afamiliar atmosphere. Examples of applications are for example relaxedconversation in the afternoon or evening, but also a “Christmas mood” orthe like.

An example of a changed sequence of the light parameters in the “RELAX”setting is illustrated in FIG. 10e . In FIGS. 3b and 3c these are thesequences which lie close to the lower limit sequence.

Although five discrete settings have been described above, it may beprovided that the one-dimensional user input can also include valuesbetween these discrete settings. The resulting sequence of the lightparameters can then be displayed in the examples according to FIGS. 10ato 10e in the bar chart. The plurality of possible user inputs on theone-dimensional scale can also be assembled into more than theaforementioned five groups or other designations.

In a further embodiment the display of the one-dimensional user inputcan take place using words, wherein the size of the words symbolizes theset value. This is shown by way of example in FIGS. 11a to 11 c.

The category corresponding to the selected setting can be displayed in alarger font size than adjacent settings and more remote settings.

The font sizes can be finely graduated in many steps, adaptedquasi-analogously to the setting selected by the user. The drawings 11 ato 11 c show, by way of example, three displays out of a possible largenumber of images for feedback of the setting to the user. In this casethe representation according to FIG. 11a corresponds to a “Boost”setting. The representation according to FIG. 11b corresponds to asetting between “Daylight” and “Work Late”. The representation accordingto FIG. 11c corresponds to the “Creative” setting with a slight tendencytowards “Relax”.

A further type of representation is shown schematically in FIGS. 12a and12b . Here the current value of the one-dimensional user input isillustrated on a curved scale by an arrow. The characterization of theset value can be displayed in a similar manner to that described abovein addition to the illustrated terms by colors and/or font sizes.

An embodiment of a lighting system according to the disclosure isillustrated schematically in FIG. 13. The lighting system has one ormore light fixtures 1 (two light fixtures 1 are shown here) and acontrol device 2 for adapting light parameters of the light fixtures 1in operation. The light fixtures 1 are connected by cables to thecontrol device 2. However, a wireless connection can also be provided.

Furthermore, the lighting system has an input device 3, in which adisplay device 4 and a knob 7 are integrated. A one-dimensional usersetting can be selected and transmitted to the control device 2 by theknob 7 of the input device 3. The input device 3 is connected by cablesto the control device 2. However, a wireless connection can also beprovided.

In some embodiments a setting of the one-dimensional user preset cantake place, also or exclusively, by a program running on a mobile device5 (for example smartphone or tablet). The mobile device 5 cancommunicate with the control device by wireless radio protocols.

Furthermore, the lighting system has one or more sensors 6 which forexample detect the brightness or the presence of persons and transmitthis to the control device. The sensors 6 are connected by cables to thecontrol device 2. However, a wireless connection can also be provided.

Although the disclosure has been illustrated and described in greaterdetail by the depicted exemplary embodiments, the disclosure is notrestricted thereto and other variations can be deduced therefrom by theperson skilled in the art without departing from the scope of protectionof the disclosure.

In general “a” or “an” may be understood as a single number or amajority, in particular in the context of “at least one” or “one ormore” etc., provided that this is not explicitly precluded, for exampleby the expression “precisely one” etc.

Also, when a number is given this may encompass precisely the statednumber and also a conventional tolerance range, provided that this isnot explicitly ruled out.

If applicable, all individual features which are set out in theexemplary embodiments can be combined with one another and/or exchangedfor one another, without departing from the scope of the disclosure.

LIST OF REFERENCES

-   1 light fixture-   2 control device-   3 input device-   4 display device-   5 mobile device-   6 sensors-   7 knob

The invention claimed is:
 1. A lighting system comprising: at least onelight fixture having light parameters; and a control device configuredto: adapt the light parameters according to a predetermined sequence ofthe light parameters as a function of time; and change the predeterminedsequence of the light parameters from the predetermined sequence to achanged sequence as a function of a one-dimensional user settingreceived from a first source external to and upstream of the controldevice; wherein the one-dimensional user setting has a value that liesbetween a lower limit value and an upper limit value and determines howmuch the changed sequence deviates from the predetermined sequence; andwherein in response to the one-dimensional user setting, the controldevice does not directly change current values of the light parameters,but rather, according to preset specifications, the control devicechanges a sequence of the light parameters from the predeterminedsequence to the changed sequence, which affects the sequence thereof inthe future.
 2. The lighting system according to claim 1, wherein thelight parameters are selected from the group consisting of: intensity oflight emitted by the at least one light fixture in operation thereof;color temperature of light emitted by the at least one light fixture inoperation thereof; transmission direction of light emitted by the atleast one light fixture in operation thereof; transmission angle oflight emitted by the at least one light fixture in operation thereof;and a mixture of any of intensity, color temperature, transmissiondirection, and transmission angle.
 3. The lighting system according toclaim 1, further comprising an input device configured to serve as thefirst source.
 4. The lighting system according to claim 3, wherein theinput device is configured as a direct input device selected from thegroup consisting of a switch, a knob, a slider, and an application. 5.The lighting system according to claim 3, wherein the input deviceincludes a display device configured to provide a displayed measure ofthe change to the predetermined sequence of the light parameters as afunction of the one-dimensional user setting.
 6. The lighting systemaccording to claim 5, wherein the display device includes atouch-sensitive display portion.
 7. The lighting system according toclaim 1, wherein the control device is further configured to: make aninput value adjustment to the predetermined sequence of the lightparameters as a function of an input value received by the controldevice from a second source external to and upstream of the controldevice.
 8. The lighting system according to claim 7, further comprisingan input value sensor configured to serve as the second source.
 9. Thelighting system according to claim 7, wherein the second source is aninput sensor external to and upstream of the control device.
 10. Thelighting system according to claim 7, wherein the input value isindicative of at least one of the date and the time of day.
 11. Thelighting system according to claim 7, wherein the input value isindicative of a detected presence of an occupant within a regionilluminated by the at least one light fixture.
 12. The lighting systemaccording to claim 1, wherein the control device is configured to changethe predetermined sequence of the light parameters from thepredetermined sequence to the changed sequence as a function of theone-dimensional user setting in a non-linear manner.
 13. The lightingsystem according to claim 1, wherein at least one of the upper limitvalue and the lower limit value is a function of time.
 14. The lightingsystem according to claim 1, wherein the control device is furtherconfigured to: reset the change to the predetermined sequence of thelight parameters as a function of the one-dimensional user setting,wherein the reset occurs after a predetermined first time period. 15.The lighting system according to claim 14, wherein the reset varies withtime over a predetermined second time period.
 16. The lighting systemaccording to claim 1, wherein the control device is further configuredto: retain the change to the predetermined sequence of the lightparameters as a function of the one-dimensional user setting, whereinthe retention is dependent on a predetermined time period.
 17. Thelighting system according to claim 1, wherein changes to the currentvalues of the light parameters are functionally derived from changes tothe one- dimensional user setting.
 18. A method of controlling alighting system comprising at least one light fixture having lightparameters, the method comprising: using a predetermined sequence oflight parameters stored on a control device to set the light parametersas a function of time; and changing the predetermined sequence of thelight parameters from the predetermined sequence to a changed sequenceas a function of a one-dimensional user setting received from a firstsource external to and upstream of the control device; wherein theone-dimensional user setting has a value that lies between a lower limitvalue and an upper limit value and determines how much the changedsequence deviates from the predetermined sequence; and wherein inresponse to the one-dimensional user setting, the control device doesnot directly change current values of the light parameters, but rather,according to preset specifications, the control device changes asequence of the light parameters from the predetermined sequence to thechanged sequence, which affects the sequence thereof in the future. 19.The method according to claim 18, further comprising: making an inputvalue adjustment to the predetermined sequence of the light parametersas a function of an input value received by the control device from asecond source external to and upstream of the control device.
 20. Themethod according to claim 18, wherein changes to the current values ofthe light parameters are functionally derived from changes to the one-dimensional user setting.